Luxury travelers can plan for an immersive exploration of some of the most important sites in the nation’s history during Crystal Cruises’ November 5 East Coast sailing from New York to Miami aboard the award-winning Crystal Serenity.

Visiting military training grounds and war memorials and walking in the footsteps of presidents – through the Revolutionary-era buildings that George Washington visited and the Capitol Building hallways – guests will gain a profound perspective on the people and places that shaped the country’s history. American heritage excursions include:

Steps back in time…

Through Colonial Williamsburg, as period-costumed hosts lead guests through the 18th century homes and Merchants Square, plus reenactments of authentic colonial life (from Norfolk, Virginia); and

Retracing George Washington’s visit to Charleston, including the Heyward Washington House where he stayed and the Old Exchange, where he greeted citizens and where the Declaration of Independence was first read by South Carolina Governor (fromCharleston, South Carolina).

Remembrances

A new tour of the 9/11 Memorial, personally guided by a survivor, rescue worker, volunteer or other veteran of the 2001 attacks highlights the survival tree that was pulled from the rubble and cascading 30-foot waterfalls where the Twin Towers stood (fromNew York City);

At Arlington National Cemetery, where thousands of soldiers from the Civil War to present rest, as well as presidents, the crew of the Space Shuttle Challenger and other notable Americans (from Baltimore, Maryland); and

At the National Mall, where World War II and the Korean and Vietnam War memorials are housed (from Baltimore, Maryland).

Iconic symbols

The original and current U.S. capitals, at Annapolis and the Maryland State House, where George Washington famously resigned his commission before Congress; and a new tour of the current Capitol Building in Washington D.C., plus stops at the White House, Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials and the Smithsonian (from Baltimore, Maryland); and

Two of the country’s most significant symbols of freedom: Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, with expert insights of the sites’ historical influence on our modern culture (from New York City).

On board, renowned author and presidential journalist Ken Walsh will share insights and tales from his many years spent as chief White House correspondent for U.S. News and World Report, having reported on five administrations and every presidential campaign since 1984.

The November 5 “Colonial Collection” cruise begins with an overnight stay in New York City, then calls in Baltimore, Maryland; Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston, South Carolina; Turks & Caicos/Grand Turk; Curacao/Willemstad; and Oranjestad, Aruba, before disembarking in Miami. Until August 29, “Book Now” cruise fares start at $4,710 per person, with special perks and fares available for solo travelers and large groups and families traveling tighter, plus free third berth for kids under 17.